The England batsman Kevin Pietersen could retire from one-day international cricket after this month's World Cup, according to reports last night.

The 30-year-old has reportedly decided to prioritise Test and 20-over cricket to prolong his career, as well as wanting to spend more time with his family.

Pietersen would continue to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League, but the Daily Mail reports that his intention to stop playing the 50-over game means he may risk losing his central England contract.

Pietersen has been critical of the long schedules now demanded in international cricket. England had only three days back home after the Ashes before flying out to India for the World Cup today.